Top 6 Must Do When in Cagayan de Oro

Recently I went to a city located up north of Mindanao Region (Philippines). Cagayan de Oro is situated in the northern part of Mindanao and it is one of the many urban cities here in the Philippines. I had the best 4 days of my stay here in CDO and this is now my 2nd fave province in Mindanao, first on my list is still Davao. There’re not many foreigners touring or backpacking here because of the stigma on Mindanao but I can guarantee that this is a safe city. Cagayan de Oro is the capital city of Misamis Oriental. Also the center of education, commerce and government offices in Northern Mindanao.

Going to Cagayan de Oro via airplane from Manila will take you around 1.5-hour plane ride. Roundtrip fares via CEBUPAC cost around 3,000 PHP / 65 USD to 98 USD depending on the season or how early you book the flight.

CDO is a diverse city in terms of history, culture, and tourism. So, I give you TOP 6 MUST DO IN CAGAYAN DE ORO.

6. White Water River Rafting

Yes, I survived the rafting. Though I screamed and got nervous at first but I enjoyed it a lot! We crossed 14 rapids for 3 hours. We also had time to swim at the area where rapids are not that strong but I only did it once and I was holding the raft when I jump off the raft, lol. Though I am wearing a life vest, I still got scared, boo me!

5. Relax and swim at the White Island

This islet is located in Camiguin Island. From CDO Laguindingan Airport we head directly to the Balingoan Port going to Camiguin Island. We drove about 3 hours and from the port our coaster board the RORO (roll-on, roll-off barge). From the Balingoan Port, it will take about 1.5 hours going to Camiguin Island.

Camiguin Island is a volcanic island with 7 volcanoes on the island and one of these is Mount Hibok-Hibok, situated on the island and considered as an active volcano.

White Island is a 20-minute boat ride from Mambajo shore. This islet has a sandbar where every photo addicts will surely enjoy their stay here. Of course, my fellow travel blogger and I didn’t miss a chance to do some photoshoots here.

4. Sea Urchin eating in White Island

Well, obviously I did not have the guts to try this local delicacy. However, my colleagues tried it and they said it’s pretty tasteful. Kuya opened the sea urchin using a small knife and he pours vinegar on it.

3. Try local food and fresh seafood

We had lunch at Seablings Restaurant and they offer fresh grilled seafood and delightful seafood and clam soup.

Try Chicken Sorol at Bahay Bakasyunan in Camiguin Island. This chicken soup with coconut milk and a little hint of spice will surely be your favorite.

Buy pasalubongs like Peanut Bar, Ampao, Chicharon and the most famous CDO delicacy – Pastel.

2. Have a relaxing stay at Bahay Bakasyunan Camiguin and at Limketkai Hotel CDO

Limketkai Luxe Hotel Superior Queen Room costs 8,000 PHP / 174 USD per night with free buffet breakfast for 2. A perfect place for business travelers and tourists who want to stay in the city. Also, The hotel is situated in the city proper and located beside a mall.

1. Snorkeling at Sunken Cemetery

Yes, I did snorkeling with the help of one guide there. Big clams, starfish, and fish are what to expect in this area. It was called the Sunken Cemetery during 1870’s when Mt. Vulcan Daan erupted the cemetery is driven underwater and the cross signifies the area where the cemetery used to be located.

4-days of exploring CDO is not much to see more the beauty of this part of Mindanao, giving me more reason to be back here soon and I will for sure.

Snorkeling on that spot, considering its significance, is something I’d really like to do. After that going backward to number 6, so resting a bit on a luxurious room, eating local food, relaxing on the beach and then rafting wildly! 😀